Banging a drum for downtown Dynamo stadium

They came from all directions with drums, signs and children to an empty lot east of downtown.

More than a few of them dribbling soccer balls as they made their way through a rocky portion of the 12 acres. Most were festive. But some said they had come to collect on a promise.

About 150 Dynamo fans who want to see their team play downtown joined area business leaders and residents Saturday afternoon in urging that the proposed stadium be built sooner rather than later.

“Everybody wins with a stadium in the east end,” Erik Nordstrom, of the Dynamo Supporters’ Alliance, told the at-times boisterous group. “Do you think the citizens of Bellaire would be similarly enthused … I think not.”

After a clear outcry of public sentiment opposing a potential stadium development northeast of Bellaire, the Bellaire City Council passed a resolution officially denouncing the proposal last week.

Meanwhile, word that the downtown site, located at the corner of Dowling and Rusk streets, might be used as jail transfer facility, prompted several in the community to appear before both Houston City Council and the Harris County Commissioners Court to voice opposition.

“We just think this location is easier for us and just about everyone else,” said Web Tilton, who drove in with friends from East Bernard as he had for all the Dynamo home games. “Look at all the people who come from the Woodlands, too.”

Added Judy Helton, who recently moved downtown, “And right here, too. Lots of people live downtown now.”

Rachel de Cordova, of the East End Chamber of Commerce, asked those present to contact the mayor, City Council members and County Commissioners and request that the stadium be built downtown.

“This is a good start,” she said, “but it’s not enough. Build now, while there is still the opportunity.”

The city has already agree to a plan that would have the Dynamo paying $60 million for construction of the stadium on city property, which was purchased for $15 million. The city has also agreed to pay $10 million for infrastructure. The sticking point has been the lack of a $10 million commitment hoped for from Harris County.

Nordstrom said the demonstration was the second of three that are planned.